Classical WETA Opera House: The Tales of Hoffman

Classical WETA Host

John Banther

John Banther is the weekday evening host on Classical WETA 90.9 FM. In his spare time, he is the tuba player of the Rodney Mack Philadelphia Big Brass, and has appeared as a soloist throughout the United States, Europe, and South America.

VivaLaVoce

Classical WETA's online station VivaLaVoce presents classical vocal music in all its forms, from the Middle Ages to the present, 24 hours per day. Featuring Opera, Choral Music, and Art Song, the station offers something for everyone who loves vocal classical music.

On-Air Host

Now Playing

Johann Sebastian Bach

Nerdette host Greta Johnsen reveals that she has a secret nerdery: she used to play the bassoon. So this week, in one, grand, bassoon-filled extravaganza, Johnsen and co-host Tricia Bobeda bring back the bassoon. First, they talk with culture writer and bassoonist Eileen Reynolds about the history of the bassoon. Then, they call up the self-proclaimed “Bassoon King” Rainn Wilson. Plus, Chicago Philharmonic Principal Bassoonist John Gaudette plays a familiar tune.

WETA Television and Classical WETA 90.9 FM are community-based public broadcasting stations serving the Washington area and supported by listeners and viewers. WETA is also a major producing station for PBS.

Arlington National Cemetery

This WETA TV 26 production explores the history, mission and daily operations of Arlington National Cemetery, the final resting place for more than 400,000 Americans. This revered place honors the dead and brings great meaning to the living.